Recent geopolitical tensions are underscoring the interconnectedness of global air travel and the impact of regional politics on everyday consumers. As airspace restrictions in Iran, Iraq, Jordan, and Pakistan impact international flights, Indian airlines are forced to navigate longer, more complex routes to reach key destinations in Europe and North America. Airlines are forced to adjust their flight schedules and routes and manage the logistics of longer journeys, all of which strain resources and complicate travel itineraries. Meanwhile, passengers are facing increased travel times and several potential disruptions.
Many flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Europe and the US are already being rerouted due to airspace restrictions. These restrictions are primarily a result of Pakistan closing its airspace to Indian carriers, which affects flights heading west. Add to that the recent conflict between Israel and Iran which has led to further airspace closures, impacting flight paths from India. As a result, airlines are rerouting flights over the Arabian Sea, utilising airways through Saudi Arabia, Egypt, or Central Asia. This change is adding hours to journey times. Some flights are now making mid-air diversions to airports like Jeddah, Vienna, or Frankfurt for refuelling and other circumstances.
The closure of Pakistan and Iran's airspace is creating significant operational challenges and financial burdens for airlines operating between India and Europe or the US. Rerouting flights is extending travel times, which requires more fuel for longer routes and increases airlines' operational costs. As a result, airlines are facing higher expenses, along with an increased likelihood of delays and rebookings. Moreover, airlines also have to pay overflight fees to new transit countries. The extended flight times and additional landings are straining crew duty hours, potentially affecting pilot rest regulations and leading to fatigue.
The recent disruptions have significantly affected passengers. They are facing higher fares, particularly on transcontinental flights. Additionally, layovers and diversions are adding extra hours to travel itineraries. While airlines may cover immediate rebooking and accommodation costs, prolonged disruptions could lead to further fare hikes. Passengers are also dealing with last-minute cancellations with no alternative flights available, extended layovers, forced rebookings, and issues with luggage management due to the disrupted operations. Furthermore, missed connections, unplanned hotel stays, and visa changes could impose additional financial burdens. Many travellers are reporting significant inconvenience, especially regarding international visas and connecting flights.
Indian airlines are currently experiencing an airspace squeeze, as flights over Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and Jordan are all restricted. Since early 2025, Pakistan has prohibited Indian overflights. The closure of airspace in Iran, Iraq, and Jordan has left Indian airlines with only a limited range of westbound routes available.
Air India and various other airlines in India are encountering difficulties because of the airspace closures. To date, Air India has either rerouted or returned 16 international flights. Vistara and other airlines that are broadening their long-haul services will have to modify their routes. Furthermore, cargo flights have been impacted as well, resulting in delays in the transportation of goods.
The timing of the airspace closures could not be worse. From June to August, outbound travel from India reaches its peak season. Additionally, the summer months usually see a surge in international departures due to school holidays. Moreover, the disruption, caused by the closure of Iranian and neighbuoring airspaces, comes just days after the tragic crash in Ahmedabad, further straining airline operations.
